Scholz: EU complete only with Western Balkans, message to Belgrade, Pristina

That is why I want to send a message to our friends from Belgrade and Pristina – do not let the past deter you from the path to a peaceful and prosperous future, said Scholz.

The German Chancellor said it is common knowledge that the Western Balkans region is still shaped by past conflicts, emphasizing that it is time to overcome them and turn to the future, reported the Serbian state TV (RTS).

I am still certain that this future is in the European Union (EU), and there is only one way to get there - full implementation of the agreements you have already reached, Scholz told Belgrade and Pristina.

He emphasized their commitment to resolving bilateral issues through cooperation and peaceful means, which is what the Berlin Process stands for.

The chancellor praised the unblocking of the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA), and said that said that two documents will be signed on Monday which aim to make people’s daily lives easier.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote in a post on X that during the summit, they will discuss past achievements and a future where all six Western Balkan partners are part of the EU.

“So it’s good to be in Berlin with our Western Balkan partners. To look back on our achievements, but especially to look forward. Towards a future where all six Western Balkan partners are part of our Union,” wrote Von der Leyen.

Serbia is represented at the summit by Prime Minister Milos Vucevic.

The Berlin Process was launched in 2014 by former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in an effort to connect Western Balkan countries and the EU and help them build mutual ties based on European values.